The Best Men’s Running Pants for Optimal Comfort and Performance

Buying Guide: Men's Running Pants 

When starting a new running regimen, you need shoes, a playlist, and determination. But you may not realize the impact of improper running pants on your workout. Old sweatpants are heavy, sagging, and definitely not designed for speed — to crush your fitness goals, you need a pair of real running pants. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose? That’s where this guide comes in. We break down the top features to consider to help you find the right pair.

Running pants are a crucial piece of athletic wear designed to make your running experience as comfortable and efficient as possible. These pants come in a variety of materials, fits, and designs to cater to different running conditions, personal preferences, and body types. Understanding these features is key to finding the best training pants for you.

Material

The material is the first aspect you should consider. Polyester and nylon are the go-to choices due to their durability, light weight, and moisture-wicking abilities. Thermal or fleece materials are recommended for cold-weather runs. You want to avoid 100% cotton clothing items, because even though they are soft, they don’t absorb sweat very well, which can leave you sweaty, uncomfortable, and can lead to injury.

Fit

Fit

varies from tight (compression pants) to semi-fitted to loose (track pants), each of which has different benefits. Compression pants can improve blood flow, semi-fitted pants strike a balance between form and function, and loose pants offer maximum mobility. That being said, you don’t want anything too extreme; clothing that’s too tight can cause joint pain or circulation issues, while clothing that’s too loose can catch on obstacles beside you as run, leading to injuries that would have been very easily avoidable.

Breathability

A breathable pair of exercise pants ensures your body heat and sweat are properly managed, which is especially important for long runs or exercising in hot weather. Look for pants with mesh panels, moisture-wicking fabrics, or those made from nylon or polyester. If you’re anything like me, you sweat a lot; maybe that’s a little TMI, but the breathability of a running pant is often an overlooked characteristic. My runs are much more efficient when I’m not frustrated at how overheated I already am five minutes in.

Flexibility

Running requires a broad range of motion, so it’s key to choose flexible activewear that doesn’t restrict your movement. Opt for running joggers with features like four-way stretch material and gusseted crotches (a design element that increases freedom of movement and durability by reducing the number of seams in the crotch area of your pants). And wherever possible, opt for a seamless pant; this increases flexibility and makes for a more efficient run because you don’t have to worry about any friction from the seams.

Weather Resistance

The weather resistance of your pants should align with your running conditions. For wet climates, look for water-resistant or waterproof pants. For colder weather, thermal or insulated pants are ideal, while lightweight and breathable pants are perfect for warmer climates. You’ll want to keep the terrain in mind too; if you’re off-roading, for example, you’ll likely want a pant that’s not too baggy so they won’t catch on plants and other obstacles around your ankles.

Visibility

If you run in low-light conditions or at night, choose pants with reflective elements or in high-visibility colors like neon yellow or orange. This feature is especially important for ensuring you’re visible to motorists, cyclists, and passersby, keeping you safe during your runs. If you’re just starting your running journey, consider whether you live in a place where the winter months have less hours of sunlight – you may need to buy more pairs of reflective pants than you think.

Pockets

Pockets

are surprisingly handy for runners, providing space for essentials like keys, phones or energy gels. Consider running pants with secure zip pockets, hidden pockets or side–seam pockets. But keep in mind, if you’re planning to keep important things like your keys or phone in your pockets, you want to buy pants that fit exceptionally well, because you don’t want the extra weight in your pockets making your pants sag. It’s not only irritating to keep adjusting your pants as you run, but also inefficient and hazardous.

Price

While price matters, higher prices often equate to higher-quality materials, advanced features, and durability. But don’t discount more affordable options if they meet your needs. Set a budget and compare products that fit within it to choose the best option for you. It may take some experimentation to find what’s right for you anyway, so if you’re new to the running game, there’s no shame in starting with less expensive pairs first to see what works.

Conclusion

Finding the best pair of men’s running pants can be challenging, but understanding the essential features can make your decision much easier. Remember, the right pair of training pants for you depends on your specific needs and personal preferences. Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge, it’s time to hit the shops — and then the track or the trail. Happy running!